Huangmei County of Huanggang, Hubei is famed as the hometown of Chinese Chan Buddhism and birthplace of Huangmei Opera (national intangible cultural heritage). It boasts two state-protected ancient Zen temples, primitive mountain forests and vast Taibai freshwater wetland. This three-day two-night itinerary combines Buddhist pilgrimage, folk art exploration and natural leisure sightseeing.
Pilgrimage to ancient Zen ancestral temples, trace the birthplace of classic Huangmei Opera, hike misty Nuobuyuan mountain, wander peaceful Taibai wetland lake and taste authentic Hubei rural cuisine
After arrival in Huangmei, visit Sizu Temple in the morning to learn the life of Fourth Patriarch Daoxin; head to Wuzu Temple at noon, the birthplace of famous Sixth Patriarch Huineng’s enlightenment; drop by quiet Luhua Nunnery in late afternoon to experience female monastic lifestyle, dine on authentic vegetarian dishes at nearby farmhouse.
Drive to Nuobuyuan early morning, hike up mountain trails to view sea of clouds; visit hidden Laozu Temple halfway up hill; wander around cascading waterfalls in afternoon, stay at lakeside inn near Taibai Lake at night.
Morning visit Duoyunshan birthplace of Huangmei Opera, watch original folk opera performance; noon tour city opera grand theater; afternoon wander Taibai Lake wetland, buy local specialties before departure.
Geographic indication product made from fresh river fish and sweet potato starch, smooth chewy, local signature staple food.
Tea planted around ancient temples, refined by traditional monk craft with mellow fresh taste.
Wild lake shrimp with tender meat, best simply blanched to retain original flavor.
Home-style festival pastry stuffed with red bean or sesame, soft sweet taste.